​Pig Anatomy and Terminology​"Pigtionary"

Involuntary or smooth muscle - Found in the digestive and genital systems and the blood vessel walls.

Cardiac muscle - The heart consists largely of this muscle. It is involuntary.

Voluntary or skeletal muscle - This is the main muscle mass forming the muscular-skeletal system. These muscles are attached to the surface membrane covering bones called the periosteum. Inflammation of this covering is called periostitis.

Disease of the muscles in the pig are common and the symptoms seen depend upon which muscle groups are involved. The failure of muscle development may also be due to nerve or bone diseases. The common clinical signs include swelling, pain, wasting or trembling of the muscles. In some diseases there is death of muscle cells. Porcine stress syndrome (PSS) is a common heritable condition (recessive gene) associated with the sudden onset of prolonged muscle spasms which causes failure of the normal metabolism and the development of acid conditions throughout the body. It frequently ends in death.

TerminologyAsymmetric hind quarter syndrome - One hind leg muscle mass appears less than the other. It can arise where poor quality iron injections are given or it may be a congenital condition. It may be part of the porcine stress syndrome (PSS). Back muscle necrosis - Sudden acute lameness and swellings of the lumber muscle often associated with PSS. Congenital muscle hypertrophy - A breeding defect with excessive muscle formations. Dark firm dry muscle (DFDM) - Describes the appearance of abnormal muscle at slaughter. Considered part of the PSS condition. Mulberry heart disease (MHD) - Heart muscle failure associated with unavailability of vitamin E and or selenium. Muscle necrosis - Dead muscle tissue. This can arise due to loss of blood supply caused by bacterial thrombosis (bacteria clogging up the blood vessels), physical damage or toxic damage. Iron toxicity, vitamin E or selenium deficiency are further examples. Myodegeneration - Loss of function of muscle due to muscle fibres degenerating. Common problems are associated with deficiencies of vitamin E and or selenium. Myopathy - This term describes any muscle disease. Myositis - Inflammation of muscle often caused by trauma or infection. Pale soft exudative muscle (PSE) - Describes the appearance of abnormal muscle at slaughter. Part of the PSS condition. Pietrain creeper syndrome - Progressive muscle weakness in pigs from 3-12 weeks old. Considered to have a hereditary basis. Porcine stress syndrome (PSS) - A heritable condition involving defective muscle metabolism that can lead to sudden death.http://www.thepigsite.com/pighealth/article/6/muscular-system/http://www.dcfirst.com/pig_anatomical_chart.html

Nervous SystemThe nervous system of the pig consists of four basic parts. The brain - The nervous tissue enclosed by the skull. Part of the central nervous system (CNS). It is covered completely by clear membranes called the meninges. Spinal cord - The other part of the CNS. It extends from the brain as a narrowed bore tube, through the spinal canal to the tail. Between each of the vertebra, which make up the spine itself, it sends branches out to different parts of he body. The spinal cord is responsible for transmitting the electrical impulses from the brain to these branches. Peripheral nervous system - Nerves leave the brain and the spinal cord and transmit the electrical impulses throughout the body. This system is the voluntary one that is under the pig's control. Autonomic nervous system - This is the involuntary nervous system of the pig with separate nerves controlling a wide range of involuntary functions. This system partly controls the heart beat, movement of the muscular walls of the digestive system, the hormonal systems and the excretory systems.

There are a number of important bacterial and viral diseases that cause clinical nervous signs in the pig. Such signs arise by infection of the brain, the brain covering, the spinal cord or any of the peripheral nerves. Some common diseases associated with nervous signs include: Click here to learn more about some of these diseases.​African swine fever (ASF).Aujeszky's disease (AD) Pseudorabies (PR).Classical swine fever (CSF) - Hog cholerae (HC).Congenital tremor - caused by an as yet unidentified virus (possibly a circovirus), swine fever or congenital defects.Hemagglutinating encephalomyelitis virus (HEV) infection.Iron toxicity.Middle ear infection.Oedema disease (bowel oedema).Poisons - Arsenic, Mercury, Monensin, Organophosphorus compounds.Salt toxicity - water deprivationPorcine stress syndrome (PSS).Splay leg - a disease of piglets at birth.Streptococcal meningitis (SM).Teschen or Talfan diseases.Tetanus.

TerminologyCerebrospinal fluid - Fluid that circulates around within the brain and spinal cord. Samples of this fluid can be obtained by needle and syringe for laboratory tests to diagnose nervous disease. Congenital tremor - A condition in newborn piglets characterised by muscle tremors and shaking. (See chapter 8). Encephalitis - Inflammation of the brain. Encephalomyelitis - Inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. Viruses multiplying in the central nervous system primarily cause encephalitis and encephalomyelitis although they may cause meningitis as well. Such viruses include aujeszky's (pseudorabies), rabies, teschen / talfan, haemagglutinating encephalitis (vomiting and wasting disease), classical swine fever, African swine fever, blue eye disease in Mexico, encephalomyocarditis in the US, Caribbean and some other countries, and Japanese B. encephalitis in S.E. Asia. Meninges - Clear membranes covering the surface of the brain. Meningitis - Inflammation of the meninges which is extremely painful and often results in dramatic clinical signs. Bacterial infections causing meningitis include Streptococcus suis (mainly type 2), salmonella, Haemophilus parasuis, E. coli and any bacteria gaining access to the meninges from a septicaemia. Viruses may also cause meningitis. Middle ear infection may be mistaken for meningitis.http://www.thepigsite.com/pighealth/article/7/nervous-system/

Reproductive Terminology

Abortion - The production of a premature non-viable litter, 111 days or less after mating. Agalactia - Failure of milk let down or shortage of milk or no milk. The udder may be congested with or without mastitis. In certain conditions, such as mild ergot poisoning, mammary glands fail to develop. Breeding- The act of mating a sow and boar.Cervix - The neck of the womb. Inflammation of the cervix is called cervicitis. Cervicitis is not common in the pig, but erosion of the thick folds occurs in old sows and can cause infertility. Conception rate - As a % this is calculated by: No. of females which conceived x 100 & No. of females mated or inseminatedThe calculation is based on a given period of time. Often pig farmers calculate this over the same period of time for both. The top and bottom numbers should be calculated over equivalent periods of time so that the same sows are being counted. The number conceived can be assessed by the number that did not return to heat or by the numbers judged to be pregnant at the first pregnancy test. Note that the conception rate is generally higher than the farrowing rate because of later embryo / foetus loss. Rolling one month, three month and six month averages of conception rates give an early indication of any developing infertility problems. Conceptus - Fertilised ovum and embryo. Corpora haemorrhagica - When the follicle ruptures to release the egg there is a small amount of haemorrhage. This is the name given to the bloody tissues that remain. Corpus albucans - After pregnancy or after the animal has been in oestrus the corpus luteum disappears and shrinks to a small white body called the corpus albucans. Corpus luteum - The corpora haemorrhagica becomes consolidated and forms the corpus luteum. This is the body that produces progesterone, the female hormone that maintains pregnancy. Cryptorchid - A male pig whose testes have not descended through the inguinal canals. Normally, the testes develop in the abdomen and descend through the inguinal canal to the scrotum before birth. Sperm production in the testes require a cooler environment than that of the abdomen. Embryo - The multicellular organism that develops in the uterus from the fertilised egg up to about 20-30 days when it becomes a foetus. Endometritis - Inflammation and infection of the lining of the womb (the endometrium). Epididymis - A coiled tube attached to the upper surface of the testicle where the sperm is stored. The sperm leaving it enters the vas deferens. It has a head and a tail. The tail can be cut off (epidectomy) to sterilise the boar. Erythema - Reddening of the skin that is often seen when one or more mammary glands have mastitis. Farrowing rate (%) This equals No. females farrowed x 100 or No. females mated Female - Breeding female including gilts and sows. A gilt becomes a breeding female either from an arbitrary time before mating (e.g. when first brought into the mating area) or, more commonly, when she is first mated. Some pig farmers only include her from the time she farrows but this results in high and less useful indications of herd fertility when farrowing rates and numbers of pigs per female per year are calculated. Fertilized ovum - The egg as it multiplies and grows to approximately day seven post fertilisation. Foetus - This describes the developing piglet from approximately 30 days through to maturity. Inguinal canal - Gap between the muscles of the abdomen in the groin through which the spermatic cord passes from the abdomen to the testicle. Implantation - The attachment of the embryo to the uterine wall by establishment of the placenta commencing 12 to 14 days post-mating. Inverted nipples - If the teat sphincter cannot be seen at eye level it is likely that such a teat will remain inverted and will not be functional. This is important to appreciate when selecting or receiving a gilt for breeding. Some inverted nipples will become more normal and be functional when the mammary gland develops but when selecting you cannot take the chance. Note that each teat has two orifices and teat ducts which drain two quite separate mammary glands, front (anterior) and back (posterior). Irregular return - A return to oestrus more than 23 days after the previous one. Lactation length - The period from farrowing to weaning in days. Litters/per female/per year is calculated by:

No. of farrowings over 3 months x 4

Average No. breeding females in the herd

In large herds this can also be calculated on rolling one month, three month and six month averages which gives a historical indication of rising or falling fertility. Thus for a three month average:

Average No. females in the herd over last 3 months x 4

Number of farrowings over last 3 months

Mammary edema - Mammary tissues may contain excess amounts of fluid at farrowing. This fluid can either be under the skin when it can be easily seen and palpated, or deep in the actual tissue itself. Both these conditions can lead to agalactia, mastitis and poor availability of colostrum. Mammary system - The udder of the sow consists of two parallel rows of 5 to 7 teats inter-spaced on each side. Mastitis - Inflammation of the mammary gland is invariably associated with infection. Bacteria causing it include klebsiella, streptococci, staphylococci and E. coli. Mastitis metritis agalactia syndrome (MMA) - This syndrome is most commonly associated with mastitis usually coliform mastitis i.e. caused by E. coli or klebsiella but it is also associated with endometritis. The sow is usually sick, running a high temperature and producing little milk. Other terms are sometime used for this syndrome including periparturient hypogalactia syndrome, puerperal toxaemia, and farrowing fever. Mating - The complete act of copulation involving one or more services. Mummified pigs - Piglets which died in the uterus and in which the tissues and fluids have been reabsorbed leaving black shrunken skeletal remains. Non productive days (NPD) - These include all the days when the sows and gilts are either not pregnant or suckling. It therefore always includes:

Entry of the gilt into the herd to point of mating.

Time from weaning to mating.

Time from mating to remating if the female is found not to be pregnant and returns to heat.

Time after a female has been culled until the time it is slaughtered.

NPD is a useful calculation because if it lengthens it may indicate a number of serious problems, including increases in the fail-to-farrow females (not in pig at term - NIP), females dying during pregnancy, and gilts with delayed puberty.Oestrus (or heat) - The period during which the sow is receptive to the boar (i.e. will stand to be mated). Usually 1-3 days. Oestrus cycle - The period from one oestrus to another. 19-22 days interval is normal. Orchitis - Inflammation of the testicle. A specific example is infection by Brucella suis bacteria. Non infectious orchitis can arise from trauma to one or both testicles. Occasionally there may be a haemorrhage developing into a haematoma (a pocket of blood). Ovaries - Two small structures which control the oestrus cycle and from which the follicles are produced and the eggs released. Oxytocin - A hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland. Its function is to release milk from the glands and at the same time cause the uterus to contract. Parity - Used to describe the number of times a female has farrowed. e.g.Pregnant gilt = Parity 0; Gilt farrowed for the first time = Parity 1; Sow which has had two litters = Parity 2 (NB. Some people get confused and use the term parity when they mean pregnancy). Pigs weaned per sow per year - The number of pigs produced in any 12 month period. In a large herd this is usually calculated as a one month, three month and six month rolling average of the whole herd. Prepucial sac - This is a sac inside the prepuce, the size of a golf ball, that contains a foul smelling fluid with a high bacterial content. Do not squeeze its contents into the vagina at service or you may precipitate an endometritis or cystitis and nephritis. Similarly if you are collecting semen by gloved hand for on-farm artificial insemination you must not contaminate it with prepucial sac contents. Prolactin - A hormone from the pituitary gland involved in the initiation and maintenance of milk production. Pyometra - Accumulation of pus in the womb following infection. It is also called pyometritis. This is common when heavy vulva discharges are seen or a retained foetus or placenta are present. Regular return - A return to oestrus usually 19-22 days after previous one. Reproductive System- The anatomy of the reproductive tracts of the sow and the boar.Salpingitis - Inflammation of the oviducts (fallopian tubes) that carry the eggs from the ovary down towards the womb. Scrotum - This is a sack made of relatively thin pliable skin which has a muscular inner fibro-elastic layer which contracts in a cold environment and relaxes in a hot environment. Seminal vesicles - These are glands which together with the prostate and bulbo-urethral glands provide fluid and nourishment for the sperm, the fluids being passed out during ejaculation. Spermatic cord - Fibrous cord, containing the vas deferens and blood vessels, by which the testicles are suspended. Stillborn pigs - Piglets observed dead behind the sow at birth. Teat necrosis - Damage to the end of the teat can result in death and sloughing of tissues. This is called necrosis. It is caused by abrasive floor surfaces in the first 18-24 hours of birth and can be an important reason for rejecting gilts for breeding. Testicle - The gland in which the sperm is produced. Urethritis - inflammation of the urethra, the tube which carries both sperm and urine down the penis in the boar or urine from the bladder to the vagina in the sow. Urethritis is uncommon in the boar but can occasionally be caused by small calculi or stones formed in the kidneys. The urethra of the sow is much more likely to become contaminated and infected because its opening is so close to the vulva. Urethritis and cystitis are therefore common in the sow. Uterus (womb) - Consists of two horns upto 1.5m in length that contain the foetuses. Vagina - The passageway from the exterior to the cervix. Vaginitis (inflammation) occurs following trauma, infection or multiple matings. Vas deferens - The muscular tube that at ejaculation propels the sperm from the tail of the epididymis on the testes up through the inguinal canal and into the urethra where it joins just below the neck of the bladder . Vasectomising a boar involves cutting the vas deferens midway between the tail of the epididymis and its entry to the abdomen, removing 30-50mm of it.Vulva - The vagina opens to the exterior through the fleshy lips of the vulva. Oedema of the vulva (swelling containing fluid) occurs in late pregnancy and trauma is very common in loose-housed sows. The tissues contain many blood vessels and are prone to hemorrhage. Haemorrhage (haematoma) is also seen in the gilt post farrowing. Such animals can bleed to death.

Male Anatomy

Female Anatomy

Immune System

The various mechanisms that protect the pig from infectious agents can be considered in six groups:

Complement system - This is a non specific protective mechanism that acts on any foreign cells or viruses that do not possess certain pig proteins on their surface. It consists of a number of chemicals found in the plasma which act together as a cascade to remove or destroy organisms.

Chemical factors - These include non specific enzymes (such as lysozyme in saliva) and acids which may be found in mucus, saliva and gastric juices. These immobilise or kill pathogens.

Mechanical factors - These include the skin, mucus, sweat, lining of the nose, mouth, oesophagus, intestine, colon, vagina, flow of urine and the passage of faeces.

Macrophage cells - These are found throughout the body in tissues and in the blood stream where they are called monocytes. They engulf and digest bacteria. They also have an important role in controlling viral and fungal diseases. The cells are of two types called leucocytes and monocytes.

Specific acquired immunity - This is of two types; that which is activated by cells and called cell mediated immunity and antibodies present in the blood called humoral immunity. Cell mediated immunity arises when T type lymphocytes come into contact with antigens and they are stimulated to produce antibodies. It takes 7-14 days for these to develop. Humoral immunity is produced from B lymphocytes which have met the antigen previously and their response is immediate. Some lymphocytes also kill other cells that contain antigens or they may act immediately against antigens.

Immunoglobulins - Specific antibodies of which there are different types namely immunoglobulins, IgG, IgM and IgA. They are found in blood, in milk and particularly in colostrum. All internal surfaces of the body also contain them.

Certain infectious agents can suppress the immune system sufficiently to make the animal more susceptible to other infections. Examples are Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, aujeszky's disease virus, pasteurella bacteria, swine influenza and porcine reproductive respiratory syndrome virus (PRRS) all of which cause pneumonia.

TerminologyAdjuvant - A substance added to an inactivated vaccine to make it more effective. Antibodies - Complex large proteins (called gamma-globulins) which are produced by specialised cells in response to invading antigens. These stick specifically to the invading antigen neutralising it or triggering off a destructive reaction. Antigen - Foreign invading substance (i.e. a substance which is not normally part of the pig's body), usually consisting of protein or part of a protein, which stimulates the body to produce antibodies. Antigens exist on the surfaces of bacteria, viruses and parasites. Antiserum - Serum with high antibody levels against a specific infection. It has usually been produced experimentally in laboratory animals by injecting the infection into them. Blood sample - Whole blood sample taken hygienically with a syringe into a bottle or by a pin prick through the skin absorbing the droplet of blood with blotting paper. Commensal bacteria - Bacteria that live permanently in or on the body without causing disease. Epithelium - Cellular membrane (e.g. mucous membranes) containing epithelial and other cells. Hyperimmune antiserum - The same as antiserum above but emphasising its high titre. Lymphocytes - Specialised defence cells in lymph nodes, other lymphatic tissue and the blood which produce antibodies or take part in cellular immunity. Mucous membranes - Cellular membranes (e.g. those lining the gut) which secrete a sticky substance called mucus on to their surfaces. Mucous - A clear sticky semi-liquid secreted by cells in mucous membranes. Pathogenic infection - An infectious organism which has the potential to cause disease. This is in contrast to the many organisms that live normally in or on the body which never cause disease and are called commensals. Phagocytes - Cells of the body whose special task is to engulf bacteria, viruses, or parasites in an attempt to destroy them. They are also called macrophages. Phagocytosis - The process whereby the specialised cells of the body engulf bacteria, viruses or parasites in an attempt to destroy them. Plasma sample - A whole blood sample taken hygienically with a syringe and mixed with an anti-clotting agent so that it remains liquid. The sample is spun fast in a centrifuge and the red and white blood cells sediment to a firm pellet at the bottom leaving a clear liquid - the plasma. Serology - Tests done in the laboratory to detect the level of specific antibodies in serum samples. ("ology" means study of - so literally serology means "study of serum"). Serum sample - A whole blood sample taken hygienically with a syringe and allowed to clot. The serum is the clear straw-coloured liquid which can be drawn of with a pipette. It contains the antibodies. Titre - The concentration of a specific antibody in a serum sample. It is expressed as the amount by which the serum has to be diluted before a serological test goes negative. Virulence - How pathogenic an organism is. Organisms with a high capability of causing disease are called highly virulent.

Endocrine System

Endocrines or hormones are the substances produced by various glands, which are carried by blood or other body fluids to influence and control the pigs metabolism. There are nine main glands (In picture below) in the pig which are responsible for controlling a variety of vital functions.

Generally the diseases associated with the failure of the endocrine glands are not important in the pig. However when the regulatory and stimulatory mechanisms between the hypothalamus, the anterior pituitary gland and the ovaries fail, anoestrus (not coming on heat) or reproductive malfunction result, including cystic ovaries. In the male testicular function is affected. The hypothalamus stimulates the anterior part of the pituitary gland to release the follicle stimulating and luteinising hormones (FSH and LH). These in turn act upon the ovaries and the testes to regulate their function.

TerminologyFollicle stimulating hormone (FSH) - Produced by the anterior pituitary gland. It stimulates the formation of follicles in the ovaries, Growth hormone - Responsible for promoting growth of most tissues throughout the body. It is produced by the pituitary gland in association with the hypothalamus. Hypothalamus - An area in the brain responsible for providing both nervous and hormonal control over most other hormone producing glands. Luteinising hormone (LH) - Stimulates ovulation and is produced by the pituitary gland. Oestrogen - The female hormone responsible for all the female sexual characteristics. It is produced by the ovary. Oxytocin - Produced by the pituitary gland. This stimulates uterine contractions during farrowing and causes milk let down. It also aids in the movement of sperms and eggs. Progesterone - The hormone that maintains pregnancy. It is produced by the corpus luteum in the ovary. Prolactin - This is produced by the pituitary gland and controls milk production. Prostaglandins - These are produced by the uterus and the placenta and are associated with the initiation of farrowing or abortion. Testosterone - The male hormone responsible for all the male sexual characteristics. It also controls the development of sperm.

Digestive System

The digestive tract can be considered as a tube that starts at the mouth and finishes at the rectum (Pictured below). In some respect its contents can be considered as outside the body. The back of the mouth opens into the pharynx which is the common area for the passage of both food and air. A valve or flap of tissue called the soft palate automatically moves to protect the opening into the trachea or windpipe when swallowing. The tonsils of the pig are situated on the surface of the soft palate. The oesophagus is the tube that leads from the pharynx to the stomach, down which food is propelled.The main infectious diseases of the mouth are the vesicular ones including foot-and-mouth disease and swine vesicular disease, although occasionally lesions on the skin around the mouth may be seen in aujeszky's disease and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome PRRS. Infection of both the gums and bones are common following faulty teeth clipping.

The digestive system of the pig has the ability to convert vegetable and animal materials into highly digestible nutrients. Its anatomy and physiology are similar to that of humans. In the stomach the major disease problems are associated with inflammation of its lining called gastritis which may result in vomiting. Vomiting also occurs in systemic disease where the organism has spread throughout the body (in infections such as erysipelas), and from toxins produced by bacteria or during high fevers. Gastric ulceration is common in growing pigs occurring in the area where the oesophagus enters the stomach (oesophageal region).

The intestine has two distinctive parts, the small and the large intestine. Inflammation of the former is called enteritis (although sometimes enteritis may mean inflammation of both parts) and the latter colitis. Enteritis is very common and caused by specific viral, bacterial or parasitic infections. The small intestine in cross section contains millions of finger like projections called villi. These increase the absorptive area enormously and thus the efficiency of the digestive process. The large bowel or colon commences with the caecum, the area of the intestinal tract responsible for the digestion of cellulose.

Terminology Ascites - Fluid in the abdomen. Atrophy - A loss of tissue due to disease or malfunction. Atrophy of the villi in the intestine occurs at weaning time causing malabsorption. Bloody gut - A descriptive term applied to haemorrhage in the lower part of the small intestine or the complete digestive tract. The latter is seen where there is complete torsion of the intestines. Porcine enteropathy is a common cause. (See chapter 9). Carbohydrates - These consist of two types, crude fibre and soluble carbohydrates. Crude fibre is a mixture of cellulose. Cellulose digestion takes place in the large intestine. Cecum - A blind sac, at the beginning of the large intestine. Colitis - Inflammation of the colon or first part of the large bowel. The caecum is often inflamed at the same time (typhlitis). This is a common condition in young growing pigs from 20-60kg weight, caused by nutritional factors and/or infectious agents. Colon - The spiral part of the large intestine. Crypts - The bases of the villi. Duodenum - This is the first part of the small intestine. Enteritis -Inflammation of the small intestine. This leads to diarrhoea which is common in sucking pigs, weaners and growers. Enterocytes -Cells at the base or crypts of the villi in the intestine. They multiply and maintain the length of the villi. Gall bladder - An organ attached to the liver which produces bile that helps in the digestion and absorption of fats. Gastric ulcers - Erosions of the mucous lining of the stomach occurring mainly in the oesophageal region. Very common and if severe they result in haemorrhage and death. Gastritis - Inflammation of the stomach lining. Often causes vomiting. Gingivitis - Inflammation of the gums. Glossitis - Inflammation of the tongue. Hepatitis - Inflammation of the liver. Ileitis - Inflammation of the ileum. Ileum - The terminal part of the small intestine. Jejunum - The middle part of the small intestine. Liver - This organ is the main factory of the body, building new materials and degrading old ones. Lignin - See carbohydrates. Lumen - The open space of the small intestine.Mucosa - The internal lining of the digestive tract. The cells produce mucus which lubricates the surface and also protects against many pathogenic organisms. Oesophagus - The muscular tube from the pharynx to the stomach. Omentum - A reflected net-like membrane from the peritoneum that covers the stomach and intestine. Pancreas - A gland attached to the duodenum by a tube, which produces digestive enzymes and insulin. Pars oesophagus - The area of the stomach near the entrance of the oesophagus. A common site for the development of ulcers. Peritoneum - This is the smooth shiny membrane that covers all the surfaces of the abdomen and its contents. Peritonitis - Inflammation of the peritoneum. Pharynx - The common passage for food and air at the back of the throat. Proteins - These are composed of amino acids which contain carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, sulphur, nitrogen and phosphorus. Combinations of different amino acids produce different proteins. Pyaemia - Invasion of pus producing organisms throughout the body with small abscess formations. Soft palate - The flap of tissue that separates the trachea and the oesophagus. It contains the tonsils. Salivary glands - There are three of these called the parotid, mandibular and sublingual glands. They secrete saliva into the mouth. Tonsillitis - Inflammation of the tonsils. Tonsils - Two patches of lymphatic tissue at the back of the throat on the soft palate. Villi - Finger like projections into the lumen of the small intestine.

Circulatory System

First, study Fig.1-1, then read the following while still referring to the figure. The circulatory system consists of the heart which is a four chamber suction and pressure pump that moves blood through two separate systems, one to and from the lungs and the other around the body. The blood returns to the heart from the body through a series of veins, which terminate in two large veins called the anterior and posterior vena cava. Blood returns from the lungs through the pulmonary veins. The top two chambers or auricles receive the blood from the veins and pass it into the strong muscular bottom chambers called the ventricles. Oxygen depleted blood from the body enters the right auricle, where it is then pumped into the right ventricle leaving by two pulmonary arteries that deliver the still un-oxygenated blood to the lungs. Oxygenated blood from the lungs is then returned through the pulmonary veins to the left auricle, where it is pumped to the left ventricle and finally out through the main artery, the aorta, to be transported around the body. If the lungs are damaged by disease such as pneumonia, they cannot oxygenate the blood efficiently, the tissues become starved of oxygen and cannot function properly.When the pig walks or runs its skin may then become blue and it has difficulty breathing. Chronic pneumonia may also hold back the blood supply causing congestion and heart problems.

Arteries are the muscular tubes that carry the blood away from the heart. These branch off into smaller arteries like the branch of a tree eventually becoming very fine arterioles. The arterioles branch further into microscopic tubes called capillaries which exchange fluid through their walls. This enables the cells of the body to receive both oxygen and nutrients and eliminate carbon dioxide. The capillaries then combine to form first small veins, which in turn lead to larger ones. The blood now contains carbon dioxide and reduced levels of oxygen and returns to the heart via the anterior and posterior vena cava to recommence its circulation around the lung.

There is an important subsidiary circulatory system called the hepatic (i.e. liver) portal system. You will see in Fig.1-1 that two arteries provide oxygen to the stomach and intestines (and also the pancreas and spleen). They keep branching until they form capillaries which then join together to form the portal vein which carries the blood to the liver. There the portal vein breaks up into another capillary-type network, where the blood comes into direct contact with the liver cells. The vessels then join together again to form the hepatic veins which discharge the blood into the posterior vena cava. The blood from the intestines carries nutrients from the food eaten and also sometimes harmful substances (toxins). The liver cells are able to modify some of the nutrients for use elsewhere and also to store some. They also detoxify harmful substances. The liver is supplied with oxygen via a separate artery, the hepatic artery.

The internal linings of the heart are covered by a smooth shiny tissue called the endocardium. The rate of contraction is known as the pulse rate. This can be felt either at the base of the ear or under the tail and varies from 200 beats per minute in the young piglet to 70 in the adult.

The blood consists of two main parts, a fluid called plasma and cells. Nutrients such as proteins, sugars and fats are circulated throughout the body in the plasma and waste products are collected to be detoxified in the liver and excreted via the kidneys. The plasma also carries hormones which are produced in one part of the body and act on another. It also carries antibodies to combat infection. The plasma also supports red blood cells (erythrocytes) which contain the substance haemoglobin whose main function is to transport oxygen around the body and bring back carbon dioxide to be expelled from the lungs. The next largest group in the plasma are the white cells (leucocytes) which are the first line of defence against infectious agents. The third type of cells are blood platelets. These are really small fragments of cells which are associated with the clotting mechanisms of blood. When blood clots the liquid that remains outside the clot is serum and this contains the antibodies. Serum may be used to inject into pigs to provide an immediate source of immunity.​Failure of blood to clot and subsequent loss of red cells into the tissues is not uncommon in pigs and occurs in thrombocytopenic purpura - a clotting defect disease - and warfarin poisoning.

TerminologyAlbumin - The most abundant protein in the blood. Anemia - Any reduction in the number of red cells or in the haemoglobin they contain is described as anemia and the extent of this is measured either by determining the number of red cells or the level of haemoglobin in the blood. The causes of anemia include:

Eperythrozoonosis suis. This is a blood borne bacterium that can destroy red blood cells.

Gastric ulcers and bleeding - or any other cause of haemorrhage.

Heavy parasite burdens.

Iron, copper or vitamin deficiencies.

Anoxia - Lack of oxygen. Tissues begin to die after a few minutes. Antibody - The protective proteins produced in response to the antigenic stimulation. They fight infections. Antigen - This is the foreign protein contained in viruses, bacteria, fungi or toxins. The body responds by producing an antibody. Antiserum - This is serum containing higher than normal amounts of antibody against a specific antigen. It is used by injection to give an immediate temporary immunity. Blood count - A laboratory test that determines the numbers of red and white cells and platelets in the blood. Blood volume - Approximately 8% of body weight expressed as litres . Blood platelets (thrombocytes) - These are cell fragments involved in blood clotting. Blood poisoning - A common term used to describe large numbers of pathogenic bacteria in the blood. Capillaries - Very tiny tubes about the diameter of a red cell. These allow water oxygen and nutrients to diffuse out to the tissues. Cyanosis - Blueing of the skin and extremities due either to anoxia, toxaemia (toxins in the blood) or septicaemia (pathogenic bacteria in the blood).. Endocardium - This is the surface tissue lining the inside of the heart. Endocarditis is the end result of the invasion of this tissue by bacteria, in particular erysipelothrix (which causes erysipelas) and streptococci. Both organisms often cause growths on the heart valves called valvular endocarditis. This makes the valves leaky and less effective. Erythrocytes -These are the red blood cells. In the normal pig there are approximately 7 million per mm3. Globulins - The proteins that make up the antibodies. They are called gamma globulins. Granulocytes - These consist of specialised cells called neutrophils, eosinophils and basophils that engulf and destroy bacteria and viruses. They are also called macrophages. Hematuria -Blood in the urine often seen in cystitis - inflammation of the bladder. Hemoglobin -This is the chemical substance in the red cells that is involved in the transport of oxygen. Hemoglobinuria - Free haemoglobulin in the urine resulting from the breakdown of blood cells. Hemolysis - This is the process by which haemoglobin is released from the red cells when the cell envelope is damaged. Hydropericardium - Excess fluid around the heart. It is often seen in bacterial infections and shock reactions. Hypoglycemia -A low level of sugar in the blood. Common in newborn piglets. Leucocytes -These are the white blood cells of which there are two types, granulocytes and agranulocytes. The granulocytes contain granules in the cell and depending on how they stain they are called neutrophils, eosinophils and basophils. Neutrophils engulf bacteria (phagocytosis), eosinophils increase in chronic disease particularly parasitic disease. Basophils produce a substance called histamine during allergic reactions. Agranulocytes consist of monocytes and lymphocytes. Lymph - Excessive tissue fluid drained by the lymphatic system. It is similar to plasma. Lymphatics - A drainage system that removes fluids from tissues and the lymph nodes. Lymph nodes - These act as filters for lymph and are one of the body's first defences against infection. Lymphocytes - These are important cells of the immune system producing immunoglobulins. They are of two types, T and B. The total leucocytes in a normal pig are approximately 15,000 per mm3 and numbers increase markedly with bacterial infections. However in some viral diseases their numbers can be significantly reduced. Macrophages - These take in and usually destroy foreign materials including bacteria and viruses. See granulocytes and monocytes. Monocytes - These cells engulf bacteria. When they migrate into tissues they become localised tissue macrophages. Myocardium -Heart muscle. Myocarditis - Inflammation of the heart muscle.Any scientific term ending with the term "itis" implies inflammation. Inflammation is the body's response to tissue damage and is associated with swelling, poor circulation, reddening, pressure and pain. Diseases causing myocarditis include streptococcal infections, certain virus infections and deficiencies of Vitamin E or iron. Poisons such as selenium and monensin and the porcine stress syndrome can also cause marked changes to heart muscle. Oedema - Swelling of tissues due to excess fluid. Common in the udder of the newly farrowed sow. Oxyhemoglobin - This is haemoglobin combined with oxygen. It is the vehicle by which oxygen is carried around the body. Pericarditis - The pericardium is the clear sac-like membrane that encloses the heart. Pericarditis occurs as a result of infectious agents which cause respiratory diseases. These include pasteurella, mycoplasma, haemophilus, actinobacillus, streptococci and salmonella bacteria and viruses such as flu and porcine respiratory reproductive virus. Plasma - Unclotted blood without the blood cells. Septicemia - Pathogenic bacteria in the blood stream. Serum - The liquid left after the blood has clotted. It contains large quantities of antibodies which can be used in the laboratory to test for evidence of exposure to diseases or in the field to provide temporary quick protection. Thrombocyte (blood platelet) - This is responsible for blood clotting. Thrombosis - The formation of a blood clot in an artery or a vein. Toxemia - Toxins in the blood stream Spleen - This organ acts as a reservoir for blood. Vasiculitis - This describes inflammation of either veins or arteries and it is often a consequence of diseases such as swine fever, erysipelas, Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, Haemophilus parasuis and salmonellosis. Viremia - Viruses in the blood stream.

Respiratory System

The respiratory system of the pig commences at the nostrils which lead into two nasal passages. These contain the dorsal and ventral turbinate bones. (see picture below). The ventral turbinates consist of four thin main bones, two on each side separated by a cartilaginous septum. You can imagine these as four hair curlers placed inside the nose. The respiratory tract is lined by a smooth membrane called a mucous membrane because it is bathed in a sticky mucus. It is also covered with minute hair like structures which are able to brush the mucous across the surface by their wavy motion. They move the mucous in the nose, bronchial tree and trachea to the throat where it is swallowed. The air breathed in through the nose is warmed by the turbinate bones which, because of their scroll-like shape, cause turbulence. This throws out the larger of the small particles so that they stick to the mucus and are swept to the throat. The many branches of the bronchi as they decrease in diameter have a similar effect on more minute particles. The mucus elevator then carries them to the throat. Only the vary smallest particles reach the alveoli where the alveolar macrophages engulf and remove them. Internally, the nasal passages open into the pharynx (throat) which is a common passage for food and air. The food is swallowed down the oesophagus and the air is sucked into the larynx at the back of the throat. The larynx (voice box) controls inspiration and expiration. It opens into the trachea which passes down into the chest where it divides into two bronchi. The bronchi branch into smaller bronchi and continue to branch gradually reducing in size to become bronchioles which terminate in very tiny air sacs called alveoli. Oxygen is passed from the alveoli into the blood stream and carbon dioxide is passed out. The lungs are divided into seven lobes as shown in the picture below.

TerminologyAbscess - Area of pneumonia containing pus where the infection has been sealed off from the remainder of the lung tissue by a fibrous capsule. Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae - Originally called haemophilus. A bacterium that produces a severe haemorrhagic and necrotising pneumonia with pleurisy. Alveolar macrophages - These cells which are located in the alveoli engulf bacteria and viruses. They are destroyed by some viruses e.g. the porcine respiratory reproductive syndrome (PRRS) virus. Atrophic rhinitis - Rhinitis caused by toxigenic (toxin producing) strains of Pasteurella multocida, in which the turbinates loses their tissues (atrophy) irreversibly. This is now called progressive atrophic rhinitis to distinguish it from non-progressive atrophic rhinitis caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica(with the addition of other organisms) and/or environmental contaminants, which is less severe and heals when the infection is stopped by the immune response. Bronchitis - Inflammation of the bronchi or bronchioles in the lung. Consolidating pneumonia - The lung tissue has collapsed and become solid. A common example is infection by Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae (enzootic pneumonia) which causes inflammation of the anterior lobes of the lungs. Enzootic pneumonia - Also called mycoplasmal pneumonia. Caused by Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, which produces a consolidating pneumonia of the lower parts of the anterior lobes of the lungs. Glässers disease - Caused by Haemophilus parasuis. It can produce a severe pneumonia and consolidation with fibrinous pleurisy. Lung worms - Small thread-like worms causing a parasitic pneumonia. Necrotising pneumonia - Necrosis means death of tissue within the living animal. Necrotising pneumonia occurs where the organism or its toxins kill lung tissue. An abscess may result. A common example is pneumonia caused by Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae. Pasteurella - Bacteria found as normal inhabitants of the upper respiratory tract. They often cause secondary infections, for example, following Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae infection. There are two common species P. haemolytica and P. multocidia the latter being the common one in pigs. Pleurisy - Also called pleuritis. The shiny membranes that covers the surface of the lungs and the inside of the chest wall are called the pleura. Infection or inflammation of these surfaces is called pleurisy. This together with pericarditis is very common in the pig and accounts for considerable loss through condemnation at slaughter. Viruses such as flu, PRRS, swine fever and the bacteria Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, Haemophilus parasuis and Pasteurella multocidia can cause pleurisy. Pneumonia - Inflammation in any part of the lung tissue. There are different types of pneumonia. Pyaemic pneumonia - Multiple small abscesses scattered through the lungs that have been carried there via the blood stream. A common example is pyaemia from tail biting. The carcase is condemned at slaughter. Respiratory rate - This varies from 20-40 breaths per minute in piglets and growing pigs and 15-20 per minute in sows. Rhinitis - Describes any form of inflammation to the delicate mucous lining of the nose. Some agents such as dust and gases may cause it but there is no long-term damage to the nose structure. Sneezing always occurs with rhinitis. Salmonella choleraesuis- A bacterium specific to the pig causing generalised salmonellosis and pneumonia. Swine influenza (SI) - A virus infection which produces clearly demarcated dark purple red lesions in the lungs. Tracheitis - Inflammation of the trachea (windpipe). Influenza may cause a very heavy "barking" cough. Turbinate bones - Dorsal and ventral. Scrolls of bone inside the nasal passages. They warm and filter air as it passes through the nose.

Sensory System

The pig, like the human, experiences sound, sight, smell, taste, heat, cold, pain and balance. The way it responds to these assists us in the recognition of health and disease. For example, pain together with posture will often indicate a specific disease such as fracture of the vertebrae in the spine. Poor balance may be associated with infections of the middle part of the ear which is common in the young growing pig. Likewise; the stockpersons own senses, particularly sight, smell and touch, are important in assessing whether the pig is healthy or ill and performing to its maximum biological efficiency.Sight for example allows the stockperson to observe the lying patterns, any abnormal excretions, signs of disease and unevenness of growth. It also helps to appreciate the quality of the environment.

Smell allows the stockperson to detect toxic gases, blocked drains, putrefying tissue and humidity, important points to consider in respiratory disease. He or she may also learn to detect the smell of scour.

Skeletal System Images

A joint consists of the ends of two bones held together by ligaments and muscles, surrounded by a strong membrane and covered with smooth cartilage which form what are known as the articular surfaces. Cartilage is dense material that is shock absorbing. The two articular surfaces are surrounded by a thin membrane called the joint capsule, the inner part of which is secretory and produces the joint fluid (synovial fluid). The muscles and ligaments surrounding the joint are attached to the periosteum, the membrane which covers bone. Beneath the periosteum is the layer of compact bone that provides the strength of the structure. The centre is composed of a spongy mass containing marrow, from which many of the cells circulating in the blood are produced. Near the ends of the bones are flattened areas of cartilage running at right angles to the bone called the epiphyseal plates, which by increasing their thickness cause bones to grow in length and width. The separation of bones at these plates is a common occurrence in leg weakness or osteochondrosis, particularly in young growing animals.

Bone is continually being broken down and rebuilt even in adults who have stopped growing. Thus they are able to repair fractures and respond to pressures. The main pressures are from muscle tone and exercise. Pigs that are able to exercise are likely to have stronger bones and joints than those that can not. Thus sows kept in total individual confinement have softer more brittle bones than sows kept in pens, yards, or outdoors.

In contrast, the articular cartilage when damaged and eroded cannot repair itself and is replaced by less effective fibrous tissue. This process can be progressive.

Terminology Adventitious bursa - A soft swelling containing fluid, resulting from a callous. Often found over the hock and elbow. Apophyseolysis - Separation of the growth plate at the point of attachment of the main muscle mass on the back of the pelvis. It is commonly seen in the second parity female. The hind leg cannot be pulled backwards because the muscle attachment has been lost. Arthritis - Inflammation of the joint. This can occur as a result of damage, but in the pig most cases are caused by infection resulting in increased synovial fluid, inflammation of the synovial membrane, sometimes erosion of the articular cartilage and sometimes the formation of pus. It is an extremely painful condition and makes the pig lame. Common infections causing this include Mycoplasma hyosynoviae, Haemophilus parasuis, streptococci, staphylococci, Coryne bacteriumand Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae. Bush foot - Infection of the hoof and the bones in the foot. It arises from trauma and damage to the solar surface of the hoof. The claw is often swollen. Bursa - A true bursa is a sac containing lubricating fluid but in pigs the term is often used to describe a fibrous lump beneath the skin covering bony prominences, caused by constant pressure.Callous - An outgrowth of bone due to trauma to or irritation of the periosteum. Chondrocytes - Cells found in cartilage. They form future bone. Crepitus - The broken ends of bone rubbing together. Epiphyseolysis - Separation of the epiphyseal or growth plate. It occurs as part of the leg weakness syndrome and fractures can occur for example, in the ball and socket joint of the femur. In young growing animals separation of the plates in the vertebrae in the spine can result in spinal paralysis. Foot rot - Infection involving the soft tissues between the two claws. Laminitis - Inflammation of the soft sensitive tissues inside the hoof. Leg weakness - A term used to describe conformation defects and abnormalities of gait in both fore and hind limbs. It is also used to describe osteochondrosis. Osteomyelitis - Infection of the bone itself and the bone marrow in its spongy centre. It can occur after a septicaemia with organisms such as streptococci and erysipelas. It is often seen in the jaw bone after faulty teeth clipping. Osteomalacia - This describes a softening of the bones and is caused by poor calcium and phosphorus deposition into the compact bone. This can be associated with the loss of these minerals during lactation or their unavailability in the diet. Osteochondrosis(OCD) - This involves changes in the articular cartilage and the bone and it is very common. Most if not all modern pigs show such changes to bone structure at a microscopic level. Another term is leg weakness. Periostitis - Inflammation of the periosteum. This is extremely painful and can arise through trauma or occasionally infection. The most common causes are mechanical damage to knees in sucking pigs, swelling or leg calluses particularly on the hind legs, seen on many animals that are reared on concrete floors. Rickets - Soft bones due to a shortage of phosphorus or deficiency of vitamin D. Rig - Synonymous with cryptorchid - A boar in which one or more testicles have not descended into the scrotum. Synovial fluid - Oily fluid in the joint. Synovitis - Inflammation of tendon sheaths and joint capsules. Tenosynovitis - Inflammation of tendons and tendon sheaths. Often caused by Mycoplasma hyosynoviae.

Urinary System

The kidneys are the organs in the body that filter out toxic and other waste materials from the bloodstream and maintain the body's fluid balance (Fig.1-10). Blood passes from the aorta into the kidney where it is filtered and returned back into the blood stream. The toxic products are then passed with fluid into the ureters which lead down to the bladder. Urine leaves the bladder via the urethra to the exterior.

TerminologyCalculi - These may be seen as powder like deposits on the vulva of sow or as small stones in the urine. They are due to the crystallisation of mineral deposits and are not usually of any clinical significance. They are particularly striking in the kidneys of piglets which have died of TGE or greasy pig disease and are exaggerated in mercury poisoning. Cystitis - Inflammation usually due to infection of the lining of the bladder. The normal thickness of the bladder is approximately 10mm but in severe cases it may be up to 50mm. Haemorrhage often occurs and in such cases mortality in sows can be high. Haematuria - Blood in urine. Always consider this as serious, a sign of severe cystitis/pyelonephritis. Haemoglobinuria - Free haemoglobulin in the urine. Nephritis - Inflammation of the kidney. It can be associated with several different bacteria that are transmitted either via the bloodstream (septicaemia) or reflux from the bladder. Bacteria or their toxins can damage the delicate filtering mechanism of the kidney. These include Staphylococcus hyicus (greasy pig disease), salmonella, streptococci and erysipelas. Actinobaculum suis (formally known as Eubacterium suis or Corynebacterium suis) is the commonest specific cause of ascending (i.e. reflux) nephritis and cystitis. Haemorrhage into the kidneys is common in the swine fevers. Fungal mycotoxins may also damage the kidneys but do not cause inflammation. pH - Urine is normally slightly acid, pH5 to 6.6. (Neutral is pH7). After weaning however, urine becomes alkaline (>pH7) for up to 3 weeks. Sows with pH more than 7.5 probably have pyelonephritis and mortality in such animals can be high particularly if it reaches a level of 8. Proteinuria - Protein in the urine. Normal levels are 6-20mg/100 ml. Levels are elevated in kidney disease. Pyelonephritis - The ureters arise from the cup-shaped pylorus or collecting area in the kidneys. Infection of this area together with the kidney is called pyelonephritis. It is a common disease in the sow. Bacteria associated with this include E. coli, streptococci and Actinobaculum suis the latter being the most common and important. Pyuria - Pus in the urine. Urethritis - Inflammation of the urethra.

Cardiac (pig heart compared to human heart)

Other diagrams/images regarding anatomy of pigs

Pig Terminology 101

Common terms you may hear when someone refers to a pig or pig condition.

General Terminology

Ad Libitum: Allowing pigs to eat an unlimited amount of feed.Adjustable Crates: Individual farrowing units that allow the height, width and/or length to be adjusted to accommodate sows of various ages/sizes.All-In/All-Out: A production system whereby animals are moved into and out of facilities and/or between production phases in distinct groups.Analgesic: An agent that alleviates pain without loss of consciousness.Anesthetic: An agent that induces loss of feeling or sensation, especially the loss of pain sensation. Used during surgery or a painful procedure (e.g. castration). Examples include lidocaine (local anesthetic), isoflurane (general anesthetic).Animal Welfare: How an animal is coping physically, physiologically and psychologically with the conditions in which it lives. Physically includes pain and injury; physiologically includes environmental or disease stressors; and psychologically includes stressors that affect the senses, especially those that result in fear, fighting, distress or stereotypic behaviours due to either frustration or boredom. Animal welfare refers to the state of the animal; the treatment that an animal receives is covered by other terms such as animal care, animal husbandry, and humane treatment.Anti-Crush Rails: Rails or bars included in farrowing crates that slow the speed at which a sow lies down, allowing the piglets to move and avoid being crushed.Barrow -Male pig castrated before reaching sexual maturity.Boar Taint: Unpleasant taste and smell that results from an accumulation of androstenone and skatole in the fat of uncastrated male pigs; it is detected when cooking meat from these pigs.Boar: Sexually mature male intended for use in breeding over the weight of 135kg (300lbs).Body Condition Score (BCS): A five-point scoring system used to classify the condition of pigs, based on the amount of fat and/or muscle.Bulk Capacity - The term describes the shape of a pig in relation to growth, health, feed, and quality of the pig. ​Captive Bolt: Refer to “Non-Penetrating Captive Bolt” and “Penetrating Captive Bolt”.Castration: A process which renders a male infertile which may be achieved by various methods depending on the species, including surgical removal of the testes, immune suppression of hormones, or cutting off blood circulation to the testes. (Only surgical or immuno-suppressive methods may be used for pigs.)CC/ML - Both are used for measuring volume, usually medications, CC and ML are the same and used interchangeably. Colostrum: Milk secreted by the sow for the first few days after farrowing, characterised by high protein and antibody content.Compromised Animal: An animal that has a reduced capacity to withstand the stress of transportation for various reasons (e.g. injury, fatigue, infirmity, poor health, distress, very young or very old age, impending birth). Transportation with special provisions will not lead to undue suffering.Creep Area: Separate area within a farrowing crate in which piglets are protected from crushing or overlying by the sow, and which is usually heated. Creep Feed: A highly palatable, nutritious feed fed to piglets while they are suckling the sow.Cross-Fostering: Permanent removal of piglets from a large litter to a sow with a smaller litter of similar age piglets.Cryptorchidism- The term used when referring to the absence of one or both testes from the scrotum, typically one is undescended and requires surgery to retrieve and remove it.CVI or Health Certificate - Certificate of veterinary inspection. Document with proof that a pig is safe and/or had necessary blood work to cross state lines. This is a USDA regulation. Failing to follow these rules can lead to confiscation and/or euthanization of your pig. Click here to review the traveling with your pig guidelines so you can be sure you are in compliance. ​Distressed Pigs: Pigs that are stressed beyond what would be deemed normal for a given situation, as evidenced by any one or a combination of the following signs: difficulty breathing/open-mouth breathing or gasping; patchy skin discolouration; high body temperature; stiffness; reluctance to move (no other visible abnormalities); inability to rise; trembling.Dynamic Group/Dynamic Mixing: Groups of gestating sows in which animals are added and/or removed at regular intervals.Effective Temperature: The temperature that pigs feel in their own immediate surroundings. The temperature at pig level may differ several degrees from that measured at higher levels.Enrichment: A way of changing the environment of pigs to their benefit.Entropion/Floating Eyelashes - lateral lashes on the upper lid rest on the tear film over the cornea and become entrapped under the lower lid. Surgery is required to fix this problem. Erysipelas - Commonly diagnosed with its diamond shaped skin lesions. Pigs should be vaccinated against it. Visit here for more information. Estrusalso- Known as “going into heat” or “in heat”, is the period when the sow or gilt is sexually receptive. Usually every 21 days, with gilts starting their first estrus between 5 and 8 months depending on the breed of pig.Euthanasia: Greek word meaning “good death”. The process of ending the life of an individual animal in a way that minimizes or eliminates pain and distress, which is considered tantamount to the humane termination of an animal’s life. Farrow - To give birth to piglets.Farrowing Crate: An enclosure closely related to the sow’s body size, in which sows are kept individually during and after farrowing.Fat Blind - When a pig becomes so overweight that they become blind due to fat deposits developing around the eyes. Finisher: Pigs that are generally above 70kg (154lbs) live weight, until they are marketed or retained for breeding. The same meaning applies for pigs referred to as “Finishing”.First Parity Sow: A sow that has farrowed once.Fleas - Small bugs that can be occasionally found on pigs * Important to be up to date on ivermectin/safeguard.Flight Zone: The distance from an animal at which it will choose to move away from an approaching handler.Foster: Refer to “Cross-Fostering”.Genetic Selection: Intentional breeding for specific traits.Gestation - Pregnancy, lasting about 114 days in swine. Also known to some as 3 months, 3 weeks, and 3 days. Gestation Stalls: Refer to “Stall”.Gilt: A young female pig, selected for reproductive purposes, before she has ever given birth to piglets.Grouping: The process of combining individual pigs or sows, or smaller groups of established pigs or sows together. Grower: Pigs generally with live weights of between 30-40kg (66-88lbs) and 70kg (154lbs). The same meaning can apply for pigs referred to as “Growing”.Growing/Finishing, Grower/Finisher: The phase of production between nursery and market.Hog - A pig that weighs at least 120 lbs Hogging - Describes the behaviour of a sow when on heat (during estrous)Husbandry: Care and management practices in pig farming.Immuno-Castration: A method of castration which is reversible and non-painful. Accomplished by immunizing against sex hormones, with the effect of moderating aggressive behaviours in males, minimizing development of secondary sex characteristics and inhibiting fertility. Antibodies are delivered via a needle given twice during the production phase.IM - Intramuscular. This is a route of delivery for medications, intramuscular means injected into the muscle.Insensible/Insensibility: The point at which an animal no longer has the ability to feel pain or perceive and respond to its environment (e.g. light).k – Value: The value derived from a formula that relates body weight to body surface area. When multiplied by a pig’s body weight (kg), k-value gives the floor surface area in m2. The formula is: A = k x BW0.667, where:

A = floor surface area in m2

k-value = floor space allowance coefficient

BW = pig body weight in kg.

Ivermectin - Medication (either orally or injectable) used to treat pigs for worms, mite and other diseases.Lactating Sow: A sow that has given birth, and is producing milk to feed her piglets.Lateral Lying Position: A resting position in which pigs lie on their sides with all legs extended. This position uses more floor space than the sternal lying position, which is described as lying upright on the chest.Leptospirosis- An zoonotic infection that is caused by a bacteria that usually presents with flu-like symptoms. Click here to read more.Lice - Haematopinus suis, largest sucking lice on domestic animals *important to be up to date on ivermectin/safeguard. Lop Ears - Forward loppin ears, sometimes nearly covering the eyes.Mange Mites - Two forms (demodectic and sarcoptic). Demodectic mange has small nodules that rupture and exude a thick creamy paste. Sarcoptic can infect humans, pigs, and other animals which cause severe itching. *Important to be up to date on Ivermectin/Safeguard. Mated Gilt: A young female pig that has been mated, but has not had a first litter.Mazuri - mini pig feed (comes in youth, active, elder)Micro-Climate: The environmental condition (e.g. temperature) that an individual pig feels, which may be different than the environmental conditions in the surrounding area (e.g. pen; barn).Morbidity: State of being diseased, ill, injured or sick.Mulefoot/Syndactyly - a breed of pigs in addition referred to a single fused hoof. Needle Teeth - These are the two teeth on either side of the jaw that look like canine teeth. They are extremely sharp and can damage a sows teats. Many commercial farms clip the needle teeth at birth. They are also called eye teeth or wolf teeth.Neutering - The act of removing the reproductive parts of a male pig. Non-Ambulatory: Animals unable to stand without assistance or move without being dragged or carried, regardless of size or age. Also known as “downers”.Non-Penetrating Captive Bolt: A specially designed device that propels a blunt, mushroom-shaped bolt with great force against the forehead of the animal which, when applied in the correct position, causes an immediate loss of sensibility. This procedure may be reversible.Nursery Pigs: A pig after it has been weaned from the sow, up to approximately between 30-40kg (66-88lbs) in live weight. Also referred to as a “Weaner” or “Weanling”.Nursery: The facility where weaned pigs are housed until they move to the next phase of production.Obstruction - Blockage of a normal function of the body from operating correctingPain Control: Alleviating pain, usually through medication (see “Analgesic” and “Anesthetic”).Pathogen: A disease-causing agent of an infectious nature, such as a bacterium or virus.Pen: An enclosure in which pigs are housed where they can turn around, and which may be used for housing pigs in groups, housing boars individually, management purposes such as mating or farrowing, or for housing pigs individually.Penetrating Captive Bolt: A specially designed device used for stunning and euthanasia that, when applied in the correct position, causes immediate loss of sensibility and results in irreversible brain injury and death.Persistent Bullying: Enduring aggression of a pig by one or more other pigs to the extent that it compromises the welfare of the bullied pig.Pig and Sow - mini pig feed Piglet: A pig up to the time it is weaned from the sow.Placenta - This is the sack within a sow that houses and provides nutrition to the piglets during pregnancy. After all the piglets havebeen farrowed, the placenta is passed. Point of Balance: Located at the animal’s shoulder. Used by handlers to control the movement of pigs.PRN - As needed. Typically used in reference to medications that aren't needed on a daily or scheduled basis but only occasionally. P.S.S. -Porcine Stress SyndromeReproductive Cycle: The period from farrowing to the following farrowing.Ridgling: A male pig with one or both testes undescended. Also known as cryptochid.Rig - Male pig with an undescended testicle. A pig with this disorder can still be fertileRehome - Finding a home for a pig or acquiring a pig from an home that is no longer able to care for them. Rescue - To save a pig from a potentially dangerous situation or to save a pig that is in need of major medical treatment. Rooting - The act of using the snout to "root" up the ground. Behaviour of pigs whereby they use their noses to dig in the ground or in any available material.Rooting box - An indoor/outdoor spot designated for the pig to root. Safeguard - Medication given orally to treat worms and other diseases. Salt Poisoning - Water deprivation for long periods of time plays a major role. Or acute ingestion of high sodium foods without fresh water available. Once water becomes available, they tend to drink massive amounts of water leading to serious neurological problems. Signs - Head pressing, blindness, ataxia, convulsions. This can be deadly for pigs. Scours - A type of diarrhea, severe scours can cause death. Scour in the piglet can occur at any age during sucking but there are often two peak periods, before 5 days and between 7 and 14 days.Scruf - Outer most hog skin layer containing oil, dirt, and skin cells.Sedative: An agent that calms nervousness, irritability and excitement by depressing the central nervous system. Used in conjunction with gaseous agents when pigs need to be anesthetized. Click here to see what appropriate sedation measures are.Social Hierarchy: The order whereby individuals establish their dominance position within a group of pigs.Sorting Board - Used to move pigs and also to put a hard safe item between you and the pig.Sow: An adult female pig, which has had one or more litters.Spaying - The act of removing the reproductive parts of a female pig. Split Suckling: Removal of the larger piglets in a litter from the dam for a short period within 24 hours after birth to allow the smaller piglets access to the dam. Also referred to as “split nursing”.SQ - Subcutaneous. This is a route of delivery for medications, subcutaneous means injecting under the skin.Stable Group: Groups of pigs which have an established social hierarchy (they have been together for some time) with no new pigs being added or removed.Stag- Boar that has been castrated after he was used as a stud or service boar.Stall: An enclosure, closely related to the pig’s body size, in which gilts, sows and boars are kept individually. Stalls are normally joined together in rows and may be used for total confinement or allow the pig free choice of access.Stereotypies: Abnormal, repetitive and unvarying behaviours caused by known factors such as frustration, coping attempts, or dysfunction of the central nervous system.Stockperson: A person who undertakes the immediate day-to-day husbandry tasks associated with looking after pigs.Swine - A general term used for all pigs.Teeth Grinding - Done typically for one of three reasons (content, teething, or pain), will be a grinding or popping sound.Tethering: A method of restraining pigs whereby a neck or girth collar is attached to a short length of chain, which is in turn fixed to the floor or the front of a pen.Thermal Regulation: Maintenance of a constant internal body temperature independent from the environmental temperature.Trotter - AKA pigs foot.Tusks - Canine teeth present on both males and females.Unfit Animal: An animal with reduced capacity to withstand transportation and where there is a high risk that transportation will lead to undue suffering. Unfit animals, if transported, would endure unjustified and unreasonable suffering.Veterinarian/Client/Patient Relationship (VCPR): A VCPR exists when all of the following conditions have been met:

the veterinarian has assumed the responsibility for making clinical judgments regarding the health of the animal(s) and the need for medical treatment, and the client has agreed to follow the veterinarian’s instructions

the veterinarian has sufficient knowledge of the animal(s) to initiate at least a general or preliminary diagnosis of the medical condition of the animal(s). This means that the veterinarian has recently seen and is personally acquainted with the keeping and care of the animal(s) by virtue of an examination of the animal(s) or by medically appropriate and timely visits to the premises where the animal(s) are kept

the veterinarian is readily available for follow-up evaluation, or has arranged for emergency coverage, in the event of adverse reactions or failure of the treatment regimen.

Vices: Persistent behaviour that usually indicates that the well-being of the pigs has been compromised. Vices may result in self-injury or the injury of other animals. Examples include tail and ear biting, belly nosing, snout rubbing.Weaner/Weanling: A pig after it has been weaned from the sow, up until approximately 30-40kg (66-88lbs) in live weight. Also referred to as a “nursery pig”.Weaning: The act of permanently separating piglets from the sow.

Common terms associated with pig organs/systems

Anus — the last part of the digestive tract through which undigested food passes out of the body​Bile — a secretion of the liver which aids in the digestion of fatsBile Duct — a duct which carries bile from the gall bladder to the small intestineCardiac Valve — a valve which prevents food from passing from the stomach back up into the esophagusCarbohydrates — the main nutrient that supplies energy to the body (starch and cellulose)Cecum — a "blind gut" located between the ileum and the large intestineDuodenum — the first section of the small intestineEnzymes — substances that speed up chemical reactions within the bodyEsophagus — a tube which carries food from the mouth to the stomachFats — energy nutrients which supply 2.25 times as much energy as carbohydrates.Gall Bladder — a sac-like structure which serves as a storage compartment for bileIleocecal Valve — the valve separating the ileum and the cecumIleum — the terminal portion of the small intestineJejunum — the intermediate or middle portion of the small intestineLiver — a gland in the body that performs a number of functions including the secretion of bileMonogastric — having only one stomach (non-ruminant)Pancreas — a gland which secretes digestive juices necessary for the digestion of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins.Pancreatic Duct — a duct that carries secretions of the pancreas to the small intestinePolygastric — having more than one stomach (ruminants)Pyloric Valve — the valve separating the stomach and the small intestineProteins — the nutrients that supply the building materials from which body tissue and many body regulators are madeRectum — the terminal portion of the large intestine Saliva — a watery, mucoid secretion of the salivary glands in the mouth that lubricates the food and aids in digestionVilli — tiny finger-like projections located along the wall of the small intestine that aid in food absorption

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All information was collected and/or written by the creators of the website unless otherwise noted. If you have any questions or would like to reach out to us, please email us at minipiginfo@gmail.com or via our Facebook page by clicking here. Feel free to share the links to the website, that is why it was created. This website does NOT take the place of your veterinarian's advice. Please seek emergency veterinarian care if your pig is sick or injured!!